Sam Mikulak is the best male gymnast in the United States and competed in the 2012 Olympic games in London. Mikulak recently had surgery on his foot, which kept him out of competing in the World Championship. He also received PRP injections, in order to help expedite the healing process for his torn Achilles tendon. During the time he was injured, Mikulak was able to successfully rehabilitate his left ankle as well as his torn Achilles tendon. Mikulak was fully healed in time to compete for a spot on the 2016 Olympic roster, and ended up making the team.

If you are suffering from a foot condition, contact Dr. Robert J. Kaplan of Twin Rivers Podiatry Easton. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What is PRP?

Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP, is blood taken from a patient and spun in a centrifuge, concentrating the amount of platelets. The plasma is then re-injected into the site of injury or damage, assisting the body in repairing damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissue. PRP helps the body speed up in its healing process. 

Uses of PRP

Injuries affecting the foot sometimes don’t heal properly because of poor blood circulation. The healing time slows down and recovery time is affected by poor blood supply. PRP injections will speed up recovery and resolve this issue.

Treatment

PRP is the first regenerative treatment for damaged muscles, tendons, and ligaments. No surgery needed. It is only applied with an insertion of a needle.

Ultrasound – An ultrasound is needed for proper placement of the platelets.

Injection – When the first injection is received, the patient will return to the doctor in about 2 to 3 weeks and monitor the recovery process.

Recovery time – Some people respond to treatments differently. Therefore, depending on your condition, the doctor will make any remaining decisions on how many more injections are needed, or if any additional ones are even required.

Benefits

One will be able to avoid major surgery, and recovery time will be cut down. PRP injections also avoid minimal scar tissue and damage to the area. Risks are also very low using PRP as a treatment. There is no risk of rejection, contracting a disease from using another person’s blood, or infection.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Easton, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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